Forward Wing Skin Bending

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Forward Wing Skin Bending

Postby vernd » Thu Apr 11, 2019 5:29 pm

I'm planning to bend the forward wing skins using the vacuum forming method. Just wondering what diameter pipe others have used for this bending method and have you been happy with the fit.
Thanks for the input.....Vern
Vern Dueck - Innisfail, Alberta
Sonex 613 Slow Scratchbuild
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Re: Forward Wing Skin Bending

Postby rkurian » Fri Apr 12, 2019 8:38 am

Vern I used 1 and a half inch PCV. VERY happy with the results. Really didn't need to use the ratcheting straps that a lot of people used to clamp it down when installing.
Ray Kurian
Sonex 612 (N115DM)
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Re: Forward Wing Skin Bending

Postby vernd » Fri Apr 12, 2019 10:14 am

Thanks Ray - and no problems keeping the PVC straight? I've been looking at PVC or ABS vs steel pipe. But lean towards PVC for cost and availability.
Vern Dueck - Innisfail, Alberta
Sonex 613 Slow Scratchbuild
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Re: Forward Wing Skin Bending

Postby thomas » Fri Apr 12, 2019 1:24 pm

Hello Ray,

I used a very straight 1-1/4" schedule 40 black iron pipe (approx 1.68" in diameter) with the vacuum method. I used a scotchbrite pad to make sure there were no little bumps to create stress risers in the skin. Since you are using the vacuum method, I think PVC would be fine or even smarter because it will be axially compliant.

Paul
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Re: Forward Wing Skin Bending

Postby mike.smith » Sat Apr 13, 2019 1:00 am

Mike Smith
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Re: Forward Wing Skin Bending

Postby vernd » Sat Apr 13, 2019 9:51 am

Thanks for all the info. Very helpful. Will put it to the test in the next week.
Vern Dueck - Innisfail, Alberta
Sonex 613 Slow Scratchbuild
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Re: Forward Wing Skin Bending

Postby vernd » Mon Nov 18, 2019 12:17 am

Getting close to bending forward wing skins using vacuum method as discussed here. I've cut out both skins and holes pre drilled.
One further question - plastic film is still on the skins. Does anyone see an issue leaving this plastic film on during bending process, or has anyone done this and any suggestions.
Thanks..Vern
Vern Dueck - Innisfail, Alberta
Sonex 613 Slow Scratchbuild
Taildragger , Aerovee(turbo),
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Posts: 44
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Re: Forward Wing Skin Bending

Postby Bryan Cotton » Mon Nov 18, 2019 7:25 am

I did not vacuum bend my skins, but I've made plenty of parts on the sheetmetal brake with the plastic still on. I can only see benefits and not problems with leaving it on for that operation.
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Poplar Grove, IL C77
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Re: Forward Wing Skin Bending

Postby Gripdana » Mon Nov 18, 2019 9:21 am

I left the plastic cover on on all my parts until ready to assemble. I made a video on how to vacuum bed the wing skins. Here is the link.
https://youtu.be/2_QWPoFEhWc
Dana Baker
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Re: Forward Wing Skin Bending

Postby vernd » Mon Nov 18, 2019 9:38 am

Thanks Dana - I had already watched your video half a dozen times. Very helpful and well done. Thankyou.
Vern Dueck - Innisfail, Alberta
Sonex 613 Slow Scratchbuild
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